Hampshire's second XI cricketers turned their attention back to four-day championship, having completed their series of one-day fixtures.

They are currently sitting at the top of the national tables, having won all five of their games so far this season.

But they faced a difficult first day against Somerset 2nd XI at The Rose Bowl.

After losing the toss and being put into bat on a damp morning - play was initially delayed by rain - Jason Laney was out with the score on 18. His opening partner, Andy Sexton, batted well on a wicket that offered sideways movement and swing for the bowlers.

Sexton struggled to find a partner to hang around with as wickets fell regularly before lunch, which was taken at 54-4.

There was more rain after lunch, and the players came on and off the pitch several times during the session, but wickets continued to fall.

Sexton top scored with 30 as the home side were all out for 136. The Hampshire bowlers had nine overs at the Somerset top order before a torrential downpour put and end to the days play.

James Schofield made an early breakthrough and Somerset were 27-1 at the close.

Hampshire will have to show some of the character that they have produced earlier in the season in order to retain their spot at the top of the pile.